French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone together, look no further than French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole, bursting with flavor and topped with crispy onions. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to share something special. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll find it hard to keep it off your table!

What makes these French Onion Funeral Potatoes so special is not just the creamy texture and cheesy goodness but also the homemade crispy onion topping that adds the perfect crunch. This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This recipe is bound to be a favorite at your dinner table.
• Perfect for meal prep: You can make this ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of flavors creates a warm, inviting dish that feels like a big hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these French Onion Funeral Potatoes is part of the fun! They are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create something truly delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Potato Mixture

• 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 ½ cups (345 g) sour cream
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried mustard
• ½ cup (120 g) chicken broth (room temperature)
• ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk (room temperature)

For the Crispy Onion Topping

• 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced, layers separated – about 4 cups onions)
• 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Variations

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add some veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who love some heat.
• Cheese swap: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on flavor.
• Herb infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the potato mixture for added aroma.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures your potatoes cook evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier later on.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 4: Mix the Potato Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions and garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Stir until everything is well combined; this mixture will be creamy and flavorful!

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Onions

In another skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot enough, add thinly sliced onions and fry until they are golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to season them with kosher salt as they come out!

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

Spread the potato mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Top generously with crispy fried onions before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

And there you have it! Enjoy every bite of these delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home.

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

These tips will help you create the perfect batch of French Onion Funeral Potatoes, bursting with flavor and texture!

• Thaw the Hash Browns Completely: Ensuring your hash browns are fully thawed before mixing helps prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded. Fresh cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture in your dish.

• Sauté Onions for Maximum Flavor: Cooking the diced onions before adding them to the mix enhances their sweetness, creating a richer flavor profile in your casserole.

• Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can introduce a delightful twist!

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes after baking gives them time to set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes can be just as fun as making them! This comforting dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.

• Sour Cream Drizzle: A swirl of sour cream over the top provides a creamy contrast that complements the cheesy potatoes wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Classic Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the potatoes.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini brings out their natural sweetness and adds color to your plate.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! Its crunchy texture pairs nicely with the creamy casserole, making every bite delightful.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element to your meal while providing a lovely green contrast against the golden potatoes.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this delightful dish! Enjoy each bite of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Make Ahead and Storage

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, allow the casserole to thaw completely in the fridge first.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Remove foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes:

Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen hash browns for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Yes! You can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Just peel and cube them, then parboil before mixing with other ingredients.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes vegetarian?

You can easily keep this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’ll still be rich and flavorful!

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver!

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These cheesy potatoes pair well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. They also make a hearty side for grilled chicken or steak!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! This recipe combines comfort and flavor, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or just enjoying it on a cozy night in, it’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Happy cooking!